Not guilty pleas to drug charges

Two men pleaded not guilty to felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs during their initial appearance in the 20th Judicial District Court on Tuesday. The charges were filed after Ryan Tuff and Lawrence Sweet were in a car pulled over for speeding through Thompson Falls on March 7.

Upon contacting Tuff’s parole officer, the police were given permission to search the vehicle. A white powdery substance was found in the vehicle. The passenger of the vehicle was Sweet, who was also on parole. Judge James Manley set their trials for Oct. 25.

Also on Tuesday, Casey MacNair entered a change of plea as per a new plea agreement. According to charging documents, MacNair got into an argument with her husband near Plains on Dec. 5, 2020. To comply with the plea agreement, MacNair pleaded guilty to the charge of misdemeanor assault. Judge Manley sentenced her to six months to the Montana Department of Corrections, with all time suspended, and a $250 fine.